Patrol seizes $2.2 million worth of marijuana in Hamilton County traffic stop

CINCINNATI – Two Ohio men are facing felony drug charges after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers seized approximately 570 pounds of marijuana, worth an estimated $2.2 million following a traffic stop in Hamilton County.

Troopers stopped a 2006 U-Haul box truck, with Arizona registration, for a marked lanes violation on Interstate 275, westbound in Hamilton County, at approximately 6:23 p.m. on August 8. Criminal indicators were observed and a Patrol drug-sniffing canine alerted to the vehicle. A probable cause search revealed 32 bundles of marijuana on the floor in the rear cargo area.

The driver, Quincy D. Showes, 25, and passenger Darius J. Jackson, 22, both of Cincinnati, were charged with trafficking and possession of marijuana, both second-degree felonies.

Both suspects were incarcerated in the Hamilton County Justice Center. If convicted, they could face up to 16 years in prison and up to a $30,000 fine.